Why Society's 'Superwoman' Myth is Burning You Out and How to Break Free
Ever feel like society has handed you a script that demands you to be Superwoman 24/7, leaving your own dreams and needs collecting dust on the shelf? It’s like being cast in a blockbuster movie where you're expected to juggle flaming swords, bake cookies for the school fundraiser, and still look flawless in your power suit—all without breaking a sweat. Spoiler alert: this script is exhausting, unsustainable, and frankly, outdated.
Let’s dive into this unending circus act of expectations. Society has long crafted an unrealistic narrative for women: be completely selfless, happily give everything you have to those around you, and oh—don’t even think about having personal goals outside caring for your spouse, home, and kids. Sound familiar?
The pressure to flawlessly juggle multiple roles is relentless. Perfect wife? Check. Super mom? Check. Dutiful daughter? Check. And let’s not forget community initiatives—volunteering at every opportunity like it’s a competitive sport. The list goes on and on until it feels like there’s no room left for you.
Now let's take a closer look at the contradictions in societal messages about ambition and capability. On one hand, we're told we can do anything; on the other, whispers suggest women can't be both ambitious and feminine or aren’t as capable as men in certain fields like engineering or leadership roles. It's like being given wings but told not to fly too high.
Imagine being Sarah, a high-achieving engineer, once advised to tone down her ambitions if she wanted to be seen as more approachable. Really? It’s these absurd contradictions that make many women question their worth and capabilities.
Here’s the kicker: trying to have it all often leads to burnout and dissatisfaction faster than you can say multitasking. Picture this: You’re tackling work emails while prepping dinner with one hand and helping your kid with homework using the other. Suddenly, you realize you've put salt in your coffee instead of sugar because you’re just that frazzled.
The truth is, striving to do everything perfectly all the time isn’t just challenging—it’s downright impossible (and sometimes hilarious when you find yourself wearing mismatched shoes).
Burnout doesn’t announce itself with fireworks; it sneaks up quietly. Ever felt constantly exhausted despite getting enough sleep? Or doubted your achievements despite evidence of success? That’s burnout and imposter syndrome pulling the strings behind the scenes.
Imagine feeling like an actor waiting for someone to shout cut on your life because surely they’ve mistaken you for someone else worthy of success. It’s draining—and entirely too common among high-achieving women.
Let me introduce you to cycle-based planning—a game-changer that aligns tasks with natural energy cycles rather than squeezing more into already packed days.
- Recognize and respect your body’s natural rhythms (energy fluctuations during the day or menstrual cycle) when planning tasks.
How corporate women can apply it:
- Optimize Workday: Use peak energy times for high-focus tasks like presentations or reports.
- Prepare for Meetings: Schedule critical discussions during social peaks when confidence is highest.
- Delegate & Plan Ahead: Focus on less taxing tasks during low-energy periods.
- Advocate Flexibility: Request flexible deadlines aligned with productivity patterns.
For those balancing corporate roles and side hustles:
- Use high-energy times for demanding side hustle tasks.
- During downtime focus on maintenance tasks requiring less mental stamina.
Practical tips include:
- Plan networking events during most social phases.
- Block downtime during lower-energy phases.
- Track energy patterns over a month; adjust plans accordingly.
Imagine scheduling important presentations when you feel unstoppable—not during low-energy slumps—that’s cycle-based planning magic!
Rediscover passions through side hustles! Here are steps to transition from corporate life gracefully:
- Identify what truly excites you beyond existing commitments.
- Start small by dedicating specific hours weekly towards exploring interests.
- Network within communities related to desired field(s).
- Gradually shift focus as confidence builds in new ventures.
- Leverage tools like task managers or budget apps to ease the transition.
In the midst of busy schedules, prioritize self-care—it isn't selfish; it's essential! Simple practices include:
- Set aside daily moments just for yourself (even five minutes count).
- Incorporate activities bringing joy whether reading, meditating, or dancing alone at home!
- Treat self-care as an appointment—non-negotiable time for you to recharge.
Connect with like-minded individuals who provide encouragement along the journey toward reclaiming goals! Consider joining groups focused on empowering women or professional networks offering resources tailored specifically toward aspirations pursued passionately outside traditional career paths.
Breaking free from societal expectations isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters most to YOU. Successful women often share these lessons:
- Progress is more important than perfection. Start small and celebrate each step forward.
- Ask for help when needed—whether from friends, mentors, or coaches.
- Reclaiming your dreams is a process, not a race. Give yourself grace along the way.
The journey to reclaiming your dreams begins with one step. Start today—because you are worth it.
Remember—you are not alone!